Brooklyn on a Budget: 10 Great Dates for Under $25

Budgeting your social life is a must in New York City, especially when it comes to dating. A typical dinner easily costs around $60 per person, making it harder than ever to gallantly pick up the tab. But don’t resort to Netflix and Top Ramen quite yet: These wallet-friendly date ideas will keep your bank account from sobbing—and your relationship from fizzling.

La Boulangerie Lopez: 647 Fifth Avenue, Park SlopeForget pricy brunch prix fixes—at this South Slope gem, you can bring your own prosecco, and uncork it, without a fee. The lovingly prepared menu features everything from a Greek-style omelet to Mexican favorites like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles. There’s also a decadent pastry case, so be sure to save room for dessert.

Brooklyn Ice House: 318 Van Brunt Street, Red HookFrom the outside, Brooklyn Ice House appears to be your typical dive bar—the craft beer selection and smells wafting from the tiny kitchen quickly suggest otherwise, however. The front room is cozy, but lead your date to the backyard and prepare for an impressed, “Ohhhhh!”

Brooklyn Farmacy: 513 Henry Street, Carroll GardensStepping into Brooklyn Farmacy is like stepping back in time. The old-school soda fountain offers some of the borough’s most decadent desserts, like the More is S’more sundae (red velvet cake chunks topped with chocolate, vanilla and coffee ice cream, Nutella and toasted fluff, all served in a housemade graham cracker) and classic egg creams.

Brookvin: 381 7th Avenue, Park SlopeCharming, quiet and rarely crowded, Brookvin is the perfect spot for a casual date. During the generous happy hour—which lasts all day Monday, until 7pm Tuesday through Friday, and until 5pm on the weekends—draft beers are $4, select wines are $6 and their soufflé-like macaroni and cheese is just $5.

Two glasses of El Coto rosé ($12), one macaroni and cheese ($5) and one dark chocolate mousse ($7). Total: $24.

Henry Public: 329 Henry Street, Cobble HillLocated a few blocks from Court Street, Henry Public has a steady crowd most nights of the week. But while the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, the cocktails aren’t for the faint of heart. If you find yourself intimidated by the heavy pours, there’s a solid list of draft beers and wines, including local favorite Wölffer Estate.

One Henry’s Martini ($12) and one Brooklyn Ferry ($12). Total: $24

Artichoke Basille’s Pizza: 59 5th Avenue, Park SlopeThanks to Artichoke’s new outpost near Barclays, you can finally enjoy their famous slices without leaving Brooklyn. It might not be the most glamorous date, but bonding over cheap bear and deliciously greasy pizza is an important stepping stone of any relationship.

One slice of artichoke pizza ($5), one slice of margherita pizza ($4.75) and two Peroni’s ($10). Total: $19.75

La Superior: 296 Berry Street, WilliamsburgThis small Williamsburg spot arguably has some of the best Mexican food outside of Sunset Park, despite the hipster decor. The margaritas are fresh and potent, while tacos like the cochinita pibil are crafted with quality ingredients and served without gratuitous flair.

MatchaBar: 93 Wythe Avenue, WilliamsburgIf you haven’t gotten in on the matcha craze, a day date to MatchaBar in Williamsburg is sure to spur an addiction. Lean classic with a matcha latte, or try an original, such as the iced mint matcha lemonade. There’s also a range of freshly baked Balthazar pastries, but their matcha cookies and macaroons are a must.

Vanessa’s Dumplings: 310 Bedford Avenue, WilliamsburgRanging from $1.75 to $6.50, dumplings at this local institution are as budget-friendly as they are delicious. Plus, beer and wine is a steal, and bubble tea comes in a variety of enticing flavors, like taro and passion fruit.